Okay, big warning here, this hike is intense. The only hike I’ve ever hated coming back down from, I fell at least 5 to 10 times on the volcanic scree. If you’re thinking of doing it, make sure you’re really confident in your hiking abilities.

The summit trail is 13 kilometers return, with a 1,587-meter elevation gain. It’s the second tallest mountain in the North Island of New Zealand, so yeah, it’s steep and a serious challenge. Expect a full 8 to 10-hour trek, so start early (around sunrise is your best bet). And don’t even think about attempting this unless the weather’s on your side. The conditions can change fast and drastically, so check the forecast beforehand and make sure you're geared up for it.

You’ll start at the Taranaki/Egmont National Park Visitor Centre, which happens to be a free freedom campsite, perfect if you’ve got a self-contained campervan and want to stay the night before your hike. The trail kicks off on a gravel road, and right away, it starts to incline. From there, you’ll reach a hut, which is a good spot to check if it’s safe to continue. Then it’s rock scrambling, followed by a stair section, and then brace yourself for the scree slopes. This is where the real challenge begins. It’s steep, loose volcanic rock and debris, and every step you take, the rocks just slide right underneath you. If you’ve got hiking poles, they will be your best friend here, seriously, you’ll need them. Many people, myself included, ended up on all fours just to make it through. Two steps forward, one step back is the vibe.

After that, it’s about an hour of rock scrambling called the “lizard.” Fun name, not so fun section. And then, you’ll hit the final stretch through a crater that’s full of snow, yeah, snow, no matter the season, before reaching the summit. It’s tough, and trust me, you’ll feel every step.

The way down is just as challenging as the way up, but the views you get along the way are worth it. You’ll be treated to epic scenery and, of course, that unbeatable sense of accomplishment when you hit the summit. It’s one of those hikes that’ll stick with you for a lifetime, but make sure you’re prepared, because it’s not for the faint of heart. Stay safe out there!